Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 434: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the status of the new unit for cystic fibrosis patients at St. Vincent's Hospital, Dublin 4; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33274/09]

Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 441: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a matter (details supplied). [33328/09]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I propose to take Questions Nos. 434 and 441 together.

The next phase in the development of St. Vincent's Hospital will involve the building of a new ward block to replace existing accommodation. The new facility will provide accommodation for cystic fibrosis patients with appropriate isolation facilities for the treatment of their condition. It will also include a dedicated day unit for people with cystic fibrosis.

The HSE, in partnership with St. Vincent's Hospital, structured the tender for this development in such a way that payments for the works can be deferred towards the end of the construction period. A contract has recently been awarded by the hospital to begin the site preparation work. In the interim tender documents are being completed for the development in order to ensure earliest possible commencement of construction in 2010. It is intended that the development will become operational as early as possible in 2011.